Job Description

Required for September 2026

NOR: 1060

We are seeking to appoint an inspiring and resourceful SENCo who will be responsible for coordinating the school's provision for children with additional needs and disabilities. The successful candidate will also lead a friendly and committed team of Student Development Assistants who are deployed to support individuals and groups of students through a variety of interventions and in-class strategies.

To help the school not only to meet its statutory duties but also to achieve its strategic aims of inclusion and academic success for children with SEND, the appointed applicant will join the Senior Leadership Group, as an Associate Assistant Headteacher, and will therefore play a pivotal role in shaping the school's policy and practice, particularly but not exclusively around SEND. The new Ofsted framework highlights the need for all schools to have a qualified SENCo with significant leadership status and sufficient influence to drive whole-school improvement for SEND students and we feel this role will certainly offer that opportunity.

Candidates must be qualified teachers with a proven record of excellent teaching in secondary schools and/or SEND environments. They must either have already completed the mandatory NPQSENCO qualification or be prepared to undertake this on appointment. Applicants without this qualification must have either the NASENCO award or be able to evidence some significant success in leadership roles, a firm understanding of SEND legislation and experience of supporting children with SEND. It is essential for all candidates to have strong communication skills and a keen desire to work collaboratively and effectively with teachers, parents, external agencies and students.

These are exciting times at Alec Hunter, since our most recent Ofsted inspection confirmed that the school continues to be 'good', with the report noting that "Staff morale is high. They feel valued by (the) leadership team (and)… like many pupils, enjoy being part of Alec Hunter Academy". Alec Hunter Academy is a mixed 11-16 comprehensive school with an established reputation as a welcoming learning community with a positive, harmonious atmosphere and a strong focus on staff wellbeing. As a member of the Saffron Academy Trust, we work in close partnership with a small family of schools in north-west Essex, including Saffron Walden County High, one of the highest performing schools in the county. Numerous opportunities for professional development exist through this partnership and our membership of several local networks. The Trust also offers a benefits package to all employees, covering 24-hour online GP access, free counselling sessions, legal and financial advice and a range of discounted services.

Our school is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates - you can read more about this in our Recruitment and Selection Policy Statement. A Disclosure and Barring Service check at an enhanced level will be required for this post. If you would like to visit the school prior to making an application, please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange this.